Married with Student Loans

Applying for income-driven plans can be complicated! Did you know that how you file your taxes, if you are married with student loans and have selected an income-driven repayment plan, can make a difference?

The Income-Contingent (ICR), Income-Based (IBR) and Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) repayment plans ONLY use the borrower’s adjusted gross income (AGI) if you have chosen to file your taxes separately, but if you file jointly, the AGI for the couple is used to figure your minimum payment amount. We have included a quick reference chart for you to review.

*Proof of spouse’s income (if available) is still required with application even if it won’t be used for calculating plan payments.

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